Mattie Kelly foundation season starts with Abba tribute benefit

DESTIN — Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation is calling all dancing queens (and kings) to kick up their heels in support of a great cause this spring.

In partnership with Ocean Reef Vacation Rentals & Real Estate, the foundation kicks off its 21st season with a special performance by ABBAFAB, a critically acclaimed tribute band for the Swedish pop group sensation, ABBA.

The concert is 7 p.m. April 9 in the Dugas Pavilion, located in the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, 4323 Commons Drive West, Destin.

Making its Northwest Florida debut, the band's two-hour, multi-media tribute includes ABBA’s popular chart-topping hits from the 1970s and 1980s — “Mama Mia,” “Dancing Queen, “SOS,” “Waterloo,” “Honey Honey,” and "Fernando,” among others.

Tribute band members Anne Davies, Chelsea Faulds, Nick Davies and Scotty Pearson have traveled the globe earning praise and accolades for their “intoxicating” talent and spot-on ABBA performance.

In addition to many memorable ABBA hits, this “Technicolor journey” features choreographed dancing, colorful costumes and plenty of audience participation.

“There’s really nothing like it,” says ABBAFAB singer Anne Davies who formed the band in 2008. “We’ve had audiences from ages 5 to 95 and they all get into dancing and singing. This music is so upbeat and uplifting … who doesn’t like to feel happy?”

Attendees may bring a chair, blanket and picnic, or purchase dinner prepared onsite from food trucks and local restaurants. Bring your own beverages or purchase water and soft drinks at the event.

Tickets for this benefit concert are $25 for adults or $20 for MKAF members. There is no charge for children younger than 12. Purchase concert tickets at mattiekellyartsfoundation.org or pay at the gate, which opens at 6 p.m.

VIP tables are first-come, first served, seat up to eight and cost $250 for non-MKAF members and $225 for members. Purchase by calling 650-2226.

Proceeds from the event will benefit MKAF’s mission to support cultural events and education programs for all ages.

For more on the MKAF and membership, call 650-2226 or visit the website.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Mattie Kelly foundation season starts with Abba tribute benefit